Valerian root

Habitat & Origin

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) grows in moist meadows, brook valleys, and light forest edges in cool regions of Europe and Asia. The root develops its earthy, warm scent only after several growing seasons and is harvested in late autumn, washed, cut, and dried slowly to retain volatile compounds. Maison Tisane selects firm, fragrant root pieces with a round earthy scent, without musty tones.

Active compounds

Valerian root contains valepotriates, warm sesquiterpenes, and earthy aromatic oils that together form the deep, characteristically warm root profile. These compounds give infusions a round, softening texture with a subtly bitter, forest-like undertone. In blends, valerian acts as a quiet anchor root that brings warmth, depth, and a calm, evening-like grounding.

Ayurvedic approach

Valerian root is seen in Ayurveda energetically as cool, heavy, and inward-turning: a grounding root that mainly offers Vata stability and Pitta cooling rest. Kapha is approached with mildness due to the compact, warm undertone. In European tradition, valerian was known as a 'night root', associated with domesticity and the transition to silence. Energetically, valerian feels like evening ground slowly releasing its warmth — deep, enveloping, and directing towards rest.

Flavour profile & Blending

Precautions